JOE THOMAS

On July 9, 2021, the memorial service was held for Mr. Joseph Frederick Thomas, II. known to many as Joe Thomas. The service was held at Eureka Downs Racetrack with Jeff Wyrick officiating. His ashes were buried in the winner circle with some of them spread over the track at the finish line.

He was born in Bartlesville, Okla., on April 6, 1940. His professional riding career started at the age 11 for Guy Ray Rutland, among others.

In his late 20’s he moved out East to race at the Eastern Thoroughbred tracks. He then started his own outriding business and from there started training. In 1976, he moved back to the Midwest landing in Eureka, where he built his reputation and met Albert Hogoboom.

He trained champions for many others as well.

He was a great horseman and loved what he did, he always said he wished to be sprinkled on the infield at Eureka Downs where he spent some of the best days of his life.